Triple Chocolatey Chia Pudding (Healthy Dessert)

Looking to curb your chocolate cravings in a healthy way? This triple chocolatey chia pudding dessert is a must. It’s like a brownie batter mousse in a bowl. The triple chocolate comes from cacao powder, semi-sweet chocolate chips, and cacao nibs- which together create an indulgent treat and added texture. 

Chocolate chia seed pudding is a healthy and nutritious way to enjoy sweets.

Check out the post below for added recipe tips, topping ideas and storing.

What Are Chia Seeds?

If you grew up in the 80s or 90s you probably recall the widely advertised chia pets. These collectible clay figurines with the green hair or fur that grew once watered. So when you hear the word chia, you may think of the of the catchy song “Ch-ch-ch-chia!”

But did you know that chia seeds are a healthful addition to your current eating habits?

A member of the mint family, chia seeds are a desert plant known as Salvia hispanica. They were part of the Aztec diet and are commonly found in Central America.

This seed takes on a gelatinized texture when added to liquid like water or milk. Chia seeds are great as a topping on yogurt or oatmeal or added to homemade granola or smoothies.

BENEFITS OF CHIA SEEDS

Chia seeds are known as an excellent source of Omega-3s and dietary fiber. About two tablespoons of chia seeds amount to 10 grams of fiber and 6 grams of protein. They also contain minerals such as iron, calcium, magnesium, and zinc. 

Main Ingredients In Triple Chocolatey Chia Pudding

Chia pudding at its core is made from combining chia seeds with milk and adding additional flavors. For this triple chocolatey chia seed pudding recipe, three forms of chocolate are used- cacao powder, chocolate chips. and cacao nibs. The recipe makes two servings but you can double it for additional meal prep.

• Chia Seeds: You’ll need 1/4 cup of chia seeds or 3 tablespoons. Chia seeds commonly sold in stores are brown/black in color. They are tiny, round seeds usually found in the organic section of the grocery store or baking aisle. 
• Cacao Powder: You can find cacao powder in the baking or healthy food aisle at the grocery store. If you don’t have cacao powder on hand you can substitute it with unsweetened cocoa powder. The recipe calls for two tablespoons. 
• Unsweetened Almond Milk:  You’ll need one cup of unsweetened almond milk. You can also substitute this with coconut, cashew, or oat milk.  
• Maple Syrup: You’ll need two tablespoons. You can add more to your liking about one teaspoon at a time. For my savvy label readers, check for real maple syrup as imitation syrup contains high fructose corn syrup. You can substitute with honey. 

• Semi-Sweet Mini Chocolate Chips:  The mini chocolate chips add more chocolate flavor and texture. Besides adding one tablespoon to the initial mix you can also use chocolate chips as a topping.  
• Cacao Nibs: These dark chocolatey flavored dried bits of cacao beans are tasty and add additional flavor and texture. You can find them in the healthy food aisle of your grocery store.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: You’ll need 1/2 teaspoon. 
• Sea Salt: A pinch of salt brings the flavors together and helps amplify the sweetness. 
• Cinnamon: Although optional, cinnamon pairs well with chocolate. If you choose to use it, you’ll need one teaspoon. 

What Makes This Pudding Triple Chocolatey?

The combination of cacao powder, chocolate chips, and cacao nibs adds a trifecta of chocolate flavor and texture. Plus, you can add more as a topping. 

How To Make Chocolatey Chia Pudding

This triple-decker dessert is an easy, make-ahead treat. In as little as three steps, you’re on your way to enjoying a healthy indulgent pudding.

STEP ONE COMBINE INGREDIENTS:

In a small bowl, using a fork or small whisk combine all of the ingredients, except the chocolate chips and nibs. Mix the ingredients together for about a minute or so until the chia seeds are fully covered and the cacao powder is dissolved and smooth. Then stir in the chocolate chips and cacao nibs.

STEP TWO COVER AND REFRIGERATE:

You’ll want to cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least four hours. The chia seeds need time to congeal with the other ingredients. Overnight is best in terms of creating a thicker mousse like consistency.

STEP THREE ADD TOPPINGS AND ENJOY:

This recipe makes two servings. Divide in half into two bowls or mason jars. Top with fresh strawberries or raspberries and/or sliced almonds or chopped hazelnuts. You can also add one more teaspoon of chocolate chips or cacao nibs.

What Toppings Work Well?

You can choose from a variety of toppings depending on what you have on hand and personal preference. My favorite thing to add is fresh fruit and nuts. You can also add additional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, ginger and chili powder. Or simply top with one more teaspoon of chocolate chips or cacao nibs. For this recipe I kept it simple using cinnamon and strawberries.

Topping And Flavor Combination Ideas:

To mix things up a bit, try experimenting with different herbs, spices, fruits, and nuts. Add as much or as little to your liking.

• Sliced almonds + cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Strawberries + blueberries + sliced almonds +  cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
• Raspberries + blackberries
• Banana slices + macadamia nuts
• Orange slices +  ginger powder (1/2 teaspoon) + chopped hazelnuts
• Cherries +  chopped fresh mint (1 tablespoon)
• Cinnamon (1 teaspoon) + chili powder (1/2 teaspoon) + pecans

How Long Can You Store Chia Pudding?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator or a couple of months in the freezer. If freezing, divide the chia pudding into two servings then store. Thaw in the fridge the night before you plan to eat it. 

If your fridge runs colder and you find the pudding is still slightly frozen you can continue to thaw on the counter for 5-10 minutes that next day. You can also double the recipe for chia pudding to extend your meal prep.

Looking for Other Healthy Dessert Ideas?

Check out the links below for more healthy treat recipes.  

• Deliciously Fudgy Black Bean Brownie Recipe (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
• Pumpkin Cookies (Soft & Delicious!)
• No Bake Recipe For Energy Balls (Oatmeal Chocolate Chip)